Reduced levels of adiponectin in omani autistic children – a brief report

Abstract

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairment in social interaction and communication, delayed and disordered language, restricted and stereotypic patterns of behavior, interests and activities, and onset before 3 years of age. The pathogenesis of autism is not completely understood and it has been hypothesized a role for environmental factors, immune dysfunctions, and alterations of neurotransmitter systems. Adiponectin, a protein produced by adipose tissue and involved in the control of energy homeostasis. It also provides insulin sensitizing, anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenetic properties. Recent studies from different countries suggest that the abnormal levels of adiponectin have been implicated in the pathophysiology of autism. There is no such biochemical data is available for Omani autistic children. So, the current study was aimed to compare the plasma levels of adiponectin in normal and Omani autistic children. Significant reduction in the levels of adiponectin was found in Omani autistic children as compared with controls. Our results corroborate with the previous findings and also suggest that there might be some relationship between adiponectin and the pathophysiology of autism.